Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can produce numerous problems ranging from genital itching and discharge to causing life-threatening complications. If you need STD treatment, talk to the experienced OB/GYNs at Main Street Obstetrics & Gynecology in Ventura, California. They offer comprehensive care for conditions such as genital herpes, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Call the office to take advantage of the efficient, fast STD testing and treatment available, or schedule an appointment online today.

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What are STDs?

STDs are infections you pick up during intimate sexual activities. This includes genital, anal, and oral sex with someone who has the infection.

The most common STDs include:

  • Gonorrhea
  • Chlamydia
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Syphilis
  • Hepatitis
  • Genital herpes
  • Trichomoniasis
  • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

STDs may cause obvious symptoms, like genital warts or an unpleasant discharge. Some might give you flu-like symptoms for a few days that you don’t realize are due to an STD. Others, like syphilis and hepatitis, can stay in the body for long periods before entering an active phase and making you sick.

Why would I need STD treatment?

STDs can have long-term health consequences in addition to causing unpleasant symptoms. Some can affect fertility, and several are potentially life-threatening. If you’re sexually active, practicing safe sex and undergoing regular STD testing protects you and your partner/s.

At Main Street Obstetrics & Gynecology, you can benefit from a full panel STD test as part of your routine well-woman exam. In addition, if you develop STD symptoms or believe you’ve been exposed to infection, you can request STD testing anytime. Symptoms you should undergo STD testing for include:

  • Irregular menstruation
  • Painful urination
  • Uncomfortable intercourse
  • Bleeding after sex
  • Genital itching
  • Lower abdominal pain
  • Sores, lumps, or blisters on your genitals
  • Unusual vaginal discharge

The Main Street Obstetrics & Gynecology team determines which STD treatment you need based on your test results.

What types of STD treatment are available?

The STD treatment your OB/GYN recommends varies depending on which condition you have. Antibiotics can treat bacterial infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Antiviral medications can treat viruses like herpes and HIV but aren’t curative. You’ll likely need to take medicines like antiretrovirals for life if you have HIV.

Avoid sex during an acute infection until you’ve fully recovered, and practice safe sex to prevent spreading STDs. If you have any STDs, you must tell your current and recent sexual partners so they can go for testing and get the treatment they need.

To arrange STD testing and treatment, call Main Street Obstetrics & Gynecology or schedule an appointment online today.